Ever wonder why your dog seems to have a foot fetish? Is your dog constantly licking your feet? Dogs lick people for a variety of reasons. Find out why dogs like to lick feet — and if it’s okay.
There are multiple reasons why dogs lick things, whether it be other dogs, people, or themselves. Understanding the behaviors that drive licking can help you identify what it means, when it’s harmless, and when it’s a signal your dog may need medical attention.
1. Exploration
Dogs use their tongues to explore the world around them. They lick objects to learn about their taste, texture, and smell.
2. Grooming
Dogs lick themselves — and other dogs — to groom and clean. This helps to remove dirt, debris, and parasites.
3. Affection
Licking is a natural way for dogs to show affection to their owners and other dogs. It is also a way for them to bond with their puppies.
4. To Get Attention
Dogs may lick their owners to get their attention. For example, a dog may lick their owner’s face to ask for food or to be petted.
5. Anxiety
Some dogs lick excessively when they are anxious or stressed. This is a self-soothing behavior.
6. Medical Conditions
Excessive licking can also be a sign of a medical condition, such as allergies, skin irritation, or digestive problems.
7. When to Consult a Vet
If you are concerned about your dog’s licking behavior, it is important to talk to your veterinarian. They can help you to determine the cause of the behavior and recommend ways to address it.
Why Do Dogs Lick Your Feet?
Granted, except for people who have a foot fetish, most of us don’t find feet particularly interesting. But keep in mind that dogs view the world through their olfactory senses. Their sense of smell is 10,000-100,000 times stronger than ours.
Feet are loaded with interesting smells, as well as pheromones, and are covered in salt from sweat. To a dog, feet are like reading a book, full of interesting stories that tell them where you’ve been, your emotions, and even what you’ve been eating.
Is It Okay to Let Your Dog Lick Your Feet?
Most of us probably cringe at the thought of licking feet. But, as long as your feet are healthy, there is no harm in it. However, if you don’t want your dog licking your feet, keep reading for some tips on how to discourage this behavior.
Read More: Why Does My Dog Like to Lay on Me?
When to Use Caution
If you have any open wounds, or have applied any medications, you should not let your dog lick your feet. Certain medications could be poisonous to your dog. If you have an open wound, your dog could transmit an infection.
Read More: Thinking of Rehoming Your Dog? Read This First
How to Discourage It
Whether your dog constantly tries to lick your feet or engages in excessive licking, if this is something you do not wish your dog to do, there are things that can discourage the behavior.
1. Anticipate the Action
If you know your dog is about to lick your feet, anticipate the action and move your feet away so that they are not accessible. Every time your dog attempts to lick your feet, find a way to prevent the opportunity.
2. Redirect the Behavior
Any time your dog attempts to lick you, redirect the attention elsewhere. One way is to use a toy, a treat, or some other form of play as a distraction. Just be careful not to give the dog the idea that licking is a way of asking for these rewards.
3. Ignore the Behavior
If your dog is licking you as a way to get your attention, turn away and ignore the dog. Try moving away from the dog, or leave the room entirely. Your dog will get the message. Then, once your dog stops licking (or trying to lick you), you can give your furry friend some praise, or a treat as a reward.
4. Seek Help From a Professional
If your efforts to discourage your dog from licking are failing, you may want to seek the assistance of a certified animal behaviorist. They can help you develop a training plan for altering your dog’s behavior.
Read More: 10 Signs Your Dog Is Unhappy
